Living with

Managing breathlessness

Breathlessness or being ‘short of breath’ is common with bronchiectasis. There are medications, special positions, exercises and breathing techniques that can help you manage your breathing.

Staying active and healthy

Here are some things you can do to stay healthy and manage your bronchiectasis:

• Quit smoking: We know this can be tough, but it’s one of the best things you can do for your lungs
• Be active: Even gentle exercise can help
• Eat a healthy diet: Nourishing your body makes a difference
• Get plenty of rest. Rest is important for healing and wellbeing
• Spend time with friends and family: Connecting with loved ones is essential
• Enjoy hobbies: Do things that bring you joy
• Practice relaxation techniques: Finding ways to relax can help manage stress
• Join a support group: Connecting with others who understand can be helpful
• Keep a positive attitude: A positive outlook can make a big difference.

Exercise

If you get breathless doing normal activities, you might think about avoiding exercise.  This, however, can weaken your muscles. Exercise strengthens muscles and reduces breathlessness. Aim for 30 minutes, 5 times a week, broken into smaller sessions if needed. The activity should make you a little breathless. Talk to your doctor about suitable exercises or find out more below.

Airway clearance

It’s really important to clear mucus from your chest every day. This helps to prevent flare-ups. A physiotherapist can teach you how to clear your airways. This may include breathing exercises, using special devices, inhaling saline, positioning your body to open your airways and doing exercises. Regular airway clearance is one of the most important things you can do to stay well.

Prevent infections

Protect yourself from infections by washing your hands regularly and cleaning your home. If you do get sick, stay home. Flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19 are especially important to avoid. Make sure your flu, COVID and pneumonia shots are up to date. Ask family and friends with a known infection to visit at another time when they’re well. 

Emotional support

It’s normal to feel a bit anxious or down when you have bronchiectasis. Just remember that you’re not alone, and to reach out for support when you need it. Talk to your doctor regularly about your mental health and find ways to support your wellbeing. Explore our resources for more information and guided mindfulness exercises.

Respiratory care nurse

Our Respiratory care nurse phone service is for people living with COPD or bronchiectasis. Our nurses can give you advice about your condition based on the latest guidelines. To make a free phone appointment, call our Information and Support Centre on 1800 654 301 (free call) or book online.